Karina LeBlanc Steps Down as Thorns GM

Karina LeBlanc, the current general manager of the Portland Thorns, will step down at the end of the NWSL season to assume a new role with RAJ Sports, the investment platform of the Bhathal family, which owns the Thorns and the upcoming Portland WNBA team. LeBlanc, who provided stability and contributed to a NWSL championship in 2022, will focus on making Portland a global epicenter for women's sports. Her transition comes as the Thorns begin their search for a new general manager. LeBlanc, a former Canadian international goalkeeper, joined the Thorns' front office in 2021 after a decorated playing career. The move is seen as beneficial for both LeBlanc and the Thorns, aligning her strengths with RAJ Sports' vision for community impact. The Thorns have a strong Canadian presence, including players like Jessie Fleming and soon-to-retire Christine Sinclair.